West Seattle replace worn turf edges
Homeowner’s Issue
West Seattle yards wear out differently than in the city — we get heavy fall and winter rains, drier summers, and a lot of shade from maples and cedars. Lawns along slopes (Highland Park, Fauntleroy hills, and the approaches to Alki) tend to wash out at the edges, and compacted clay pockets in older lots hold moisture, invite moss, and make new turf fail without amendment. Salt spray and wind near Alki accelerate edge breakdown; inland blocks near Lincoln Park show moss and thinning where lawns never dry out fully.
HOAs and neighbors here expect tidy edges: compositional borders that survive foot traffic and rainy winters. Improper edging lets run-off undercut turf, sends soil onto sidewalks, and creates weed-pressure zones where ivy or blackberry take hold. Water restrictions in late summer make irrigation choices important; that’s why we prioritize quick-establishing sod or native alternatives and soil work that reduces future water needs. Our approach addresses erosion, compaction, sun/shade microclimates, and curb appeal so the lawn performs year-round without herbicides.
Our Quality Service
We replace worn turf edges using sustainable methods only — no herbicides. We assess microclimates, test soil texture and compaction, and choose sod, seed, or native groundcover suited to the spot. Tools: steel edging, sod cutter, wheelbarrows, soil aerator/tiller, compost/topsoil blend, hand tools for delicate areas. Typical jobs finish in 1 day for small fronts and 1–3 days for larger or sloped sites. We work in favorable windows (spring or early fall for seed; late spring–summer for sod) to maximize establishment before the wet season.
Local insight: add compost to West Seattle’s compacted soils, grade for surface runoff, and use permeable borders on slopes. Benefits: safer walklines, clearer curb appeal, less weekly trim work, and edges that resist wash-out and moss.
What’s Included
- Site assessment and edge layout.
- Removal of loose, damaged turf and root debris.
- Soil amendment (compost/topsoil) and light grading.
- Install new sod or seed; compact and finish to grade.
- Install steel or decorative edging where requested.
- Clean-up and haul-away of green waste (or green bin prep).
Options / Upgrades
- Mulch + landscape fabric under planting strips (sustainable weed suppression).
- Organic, manual weed control and moss raking — no herbicides.
- Haul-away vs. green-bin sorting for debris.
- Native groundcover or drought-tolerant plug planting for low-maintenance borders.
- Drip irrigation tie-ins or manual hand-watering plan.
Before & After / Expectations
Work is dusty and noisy for a short window. Expect wheelbarrows, a sod cutter, and some compost bags on site. Access: keep gates clear and one parking spot nearby when possible. Post-install: new sod needs frequent watering (see care tips) and will settle; seams may be visible for 1–2 weeks. On slopes, we may use biodegradable erosion control matting temporarily.
West Seattle care tips
- Best install: spring/early fall for seed, late spring for sod establishment.
- Water windows: early morning or late evening; avoid midday heat and respect local summer restrictions.
- Moss and ivy: rake and remove in late winter/early spring before new growth; amend shaded, compacted patches with compost and increased light where possible.
- Mow height: keep turf higher for moisture retention and root development.
FAQs
Q: How long before the edge looks settled?
A: Sod typically roots in 10–21 days; seed takes 4–8 weeks depending on conditions.Q: Do you use chemicals for weeds/moss?
A: No. We use mechanical removal, hand-weeding, moss raking, organic compost, and mulches only.Q: Will my slope need extra work?
A: Often yes — we may add soil, install edging, or apply short-term biodegradable erosion control to protect new turf.Q: How disruptive is the job?
A: Expect concentrated noise for a day or two. We finish sites tidy and haul green waste or prep it for the city green bin.
Call to Action
If you live in West Seattle — from Alki to Highland Park — and want durable, low-maintenance turf edges done the right way, book a free estimate. We schedule quickly, work clean, and use sustainable methods tailored to local soils and microclimates. Email neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com or call 206-538-9344 for availability and a photo-based quote.